Empowering Independence: Reflections from the Homes For Us Summit

On Saturday, 25th October 2025, representatives from One Place East – Kweku Wilson, Benjamin Gague, and Andrew Longhurst attended the Home Summit, a powerful gathering focused on housing rights and independence for people with disabilities.

The summit sparked vital conversations around the need for greater autonomy and choice in housing. Attendees highlighted how individuals with learning disabilities are often placed in supported living for decades – sometimes 10, 15, or even 28 years – without the opportunity to move into independent accommodation. This was described as unfair and disempowering.

Discussions centered on the importance of:

• Having a real choice in where to live, free from cultural or bureaucratic control.
• Receiving support when bidding for a property, especially from local councils.
• Ensuring tenancy security, particularly when a parent passes away. It was recommended that individuals ensure their name is on the tenancy agreement and that they have access to a copy of the will to help councils support them effectively.
• Encouraging councils to help people with learning disabilities rent or own flats, rather than defaulting to supported living arrangements.

In the afternoon, participants explored creative ways to amplify their message to abolish outdated policies and push for reform. The group agreed to reconvene in March 2026 for a larger meeting with MPs and stakeholders to continue advocating for change.

The feedback received was overwhelmingly positive, with organisers acknowledging the strength of the ideas shared. The next steps will be communicated in the new year, and the momentum for change continues to build. One Place East remains committed to supporting people with disabilities in their journey toward independence, dignity, and choice.